Jazz Band at UT of PB?

[deadwtxsky]

So my friend Randy, a really talented saxophonist, asked me to play in the UTPB jazz band. And I just have a few worries and wanted to hear some experience from you guys. I've never played in a ensemble. But I did play cello for 1 year in the 6th grade but that was like in 1996. I don't know how to read music that well, but I know I could really fix that quick since I have a basic understanding... haha I almost spelled it "bassic" Thats not funny... sorry. Well anyway. What do you guys think? Please share some stories. Unless your boring. I have a lot of improv experience and I jam out to the jazzy rock and R and B stuff like DMB, Mar Volta, john Mayer(Don't hate).

[MalcolmAmos]

Jump at the chance. I would love to be in a jazz band. As far as playing with the group and not reading music. Get a song list and work out the chord changes - use simple grooves and see where it takes you. After several sessions you'll know what will be needed.

Here are possible chord progressions on hundreds of jazz standards. http://www.ralphpatt.com/Song.html

Good luck.

[JimmyM]

bone up on your reading and do it. nothing like jazz to make someone a better all around player in any styles.